Slave Insurrection in Virginia
Baltimore, Oct. 17.
A despatch [dispatch] just received here from Frederick, dated this morning, states that an insurrection has broken out at Harper's Ferry, where an armed band of abolitionists had full possession of government arsenal.
The express train going east was twice fired into and one or two hands and a negro killed while they were endeavoring to get the train through the town.
The insurrectionists stopped and arrested two men who had come to town with a load of wheat, and seizing their wagon, and loaded it with rifles and sent them into Maryland. The insurrectionists number about 250 whites and are aided by a band of negroes. At last accounts fighting was going on.
The above is given just as it was received here. It seems very improbable, and should be received with great caution until confirmed by further advices.
LATER. --The affair is exaggerated. No insurrection.
Baltimore, Oct. 17.
A later dispatch received at the railroad office, says the affair has been greatly exaggerated. The reports had their foundation in a difficulty at the armory, which with negroes had nothing to do.
THIRD DESPATCH
Baltimore, Oct. 17 --1 P. M.
It is apprehended that the affair at Harper's Ferry is more serious that our citizens seem willing to believe.
The wires from Harper's Ferry are cut, and consequently we have no communication beyond Monocacy Station.
The southern train, which was due here at an early hour this morning, has not yet arrived.
It is rumored that there is a stampede of negroes from this state.
There are many other wild rumors, but nothing authentic.
"Slave Insurrection in Virginia - Third Despatch," Buffalo (NY) Commercial, October 17, 1859, p. 3